A Leading Cause of Death, Heart Disease is Often Misdiagnosed in Women

While coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death for women, research suggests it is often overlooked and misdiagnosed in women.  Medical News Today explains that CHD occurs when the arteries delivering oxygenated blood into the heart, which pumps it out to other organs, are unable to ‘service’ the heart effectively.”  Doctors also report women are more at risk for developing non-obstructive CHD, which is a condition that causes the arteries going into the heart to be abnormally squeezed by surrounding tissue. 

One reason women are often under diagnosed with CHD is the symptoms are so varied in individuals as well as between men and women.  Non-obstructive CHD can also be symptom-less and go undetected for years.  Moreover the symptoms women do experience are more atypical and can include things like “back pain, burning in the chest, abdominal discomfort, nausea, or fatigue — which makes the diagnosis more difficult,” says one researcher.  Another problem is many women wait to get medical attention, and in some cases, not until the disease has progressed, thus delaying the start of treatment.    

Researchers also recognize that most of the CHD studies done in the past have concentrated on men and have under represented women.  Hopefully with this understanding, more women will be included in future research.  

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, we provide a lifestyle above ordinary assisted living facilities that focuses on wellness, comfort and community.  Our care services include 24/7 Care Managers, Certified Med Care Managers, scheduled Health & Wellness Evaluations,  CPR-trained team members on every shift, Licensed Nurse onsite 5-7 days/week and on call 24/7, and much more.  We also provide a full range of auxiliary care services to deal with other health concerns on an as needed basis.  Please visit our website for more information. 

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows epitomizes the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve as we create a true home for residents at the foot of the majestic Rockies.  We invite you to schedule a visit to discover why we are a step above ordinary assisted living facilities in Colorado Springs. 

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324659.php